A heavy rain watch has been issued for the Coromandel area today.

The MetService is forecasting heavy rain for some areas of the North Island.

"Cold southeasterlies may bring further heavy snow to parts of the upper South Island this morning," says a spokesperson for the weather organisation.

"Slow moving fronts are likely to affect the North Island today and tomorrow, possibly bringing heavy rain to parts of the eastern and upper North Island.

"People are advised to keep up to date with the latest forecasts in case any changes are made."

HEAVY RAIN WATCH

Area: Great Barrier Island and Northland south of Kawakawa

Valid: 18 hours from 5am to 11pm Wednesday

Forecast: Periods of heavy rain and possible thunderstorms. Rainfall amounts may approach warning criteria.

Area: Coromandel Peninsula

Valid: 7 hours from 8am to 3pm Tuesday

Forecast: Periods of heavy rain and possible thunderstorms. Rainfall amounts may approach warning criteria.

Area: The Ruahine Range

Valid: 9 hours from 8am to 5pm Tuesday

Forecast: Periods of rain, heavy at times. Rainfall amounts may approach warning criteria.

Watches no longer in force

Heavy rain watch lifted for: Eastern hills of Wellington and the hills and ranges of Wairarapa, including the Tararua Range.: Rain is expected to ease this morning and the watch is lifted.

Strong wind watch lifted for: Marlborough from Seddon northwards: Winds are easing and the watch is lifted.

Strong wind watch lifted for: Wellington: Southeast gales are easing and the watch is lifted.